Joanne's running Wirral Race For Life in dad's memory

A STORE manager whose 'truly amazing' dad died from cancer is taking part in this year's Wirral Race for Life in his memory.

William Duckworth died from pancreatic cancer in January.

His daugher Joanne McCann, a 41-year-old retail is among 1299 women signed up for the Globe-backed fundraiser in Birkenhead Park on Sunday, July 27 and is urging readers to join her.

The 41-year-old retail manager, said: "Taking part in Race for Life is my way of fighting back against cancer for taking my dad. I miss him every day.

"It's going to be an incredibly emotional event, but I know dad would be proud of me and that by taking part I’ll be helping other families have more precious time with their loved ones.

"That's why I want women in the area to join me, because united we are stronger than this terrible disease."

William, known to everyone as Billy, first became unwell in November last year. He was suffering with severe stomach pains and had stopped eating.

He was referred to Arrowe Park Hospital and in December was given the devastating news that he had pancreatic cancer. Later that month the family were told that Billy had just two weeks to live.

Billy lost his battle to the disease aged 69.

Joanne, who is married to husband Stephen, said: "Dad was always such a well man, so when he was diagnosed with cancer we were all completely shocked - we just couldn't believe it was happening to him.

"Dad was the bravest, most amazing person I have ever met in my whole life. He was simply perfect and life without him is just so hard."

Joanne has taken part in Cancer Research UK's Race for Life for the past eight years - but this time will be doing it in honour of her dad.

This year, organisers need 3,600 women and girls to stride out in Wirral to help raise £350,000. To register, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.

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